From June 23rd to 25th, the International Transport Workers’ Federation, with the generous support of local affiliates AMOSUP, APSU, and PWUP and with the welcomed presence of ITF seafarers’ unions JSU (Japan), NSU (Norway), and ver.di (Germany) hosted a unique event highly appreciated by seafarers visited the ITF Seafarers' Expo 2023 in Manila. This marked as the second time in history of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) that such a major maritime event has been organized, reinforcing its steadfast commitment as the voice of seafarers worldwide.
The Expo provided an excellent platform for approximately 5,000 seafarers and their families to interact with ITF inspectors, legal and labour specialists, and other experts in related areas. The event arranged a main stage, three activity tents, and a diverse range of seafarer welfare and learning providers. It ensured attendees had a great time while gaining valuable knowledge throughout these days.
Stephen Cotton, the ITF General Secretary, emphasized the significance of the event, as it provided an opportunity for seafarers to expand their awareness of ITF, its affiliated organizations, and the evolving global maritime industry. Furthermore, he highlighted how the Expo offers valuable insights into seafarers' rights and the various opportunities available to them.
Jacqueline Smith, the ITF Maritime Coordinator, highlighted that Expo's location, Manila, is recognized as the primary supplier of seafarers for the global merchant fleet. She also emphasized the Philippines' commitment to decarbonization and comprehensive training of seafarers in preparation for a Just Transition. The government's initiatives in safeguarding the future of Filipino seafarers and their active approach in engaging with employers and seafarers' unions were lauded as well.
During the Expo, Filipino seafarers had the opportunity not only to get more detailed information on FOC and other ITF campaigns, abandonment cases, MLC standards, and guidelines on the usage of ITF websites and upgraded ITF Seafarers App where the coverage of any ship with ITF Approved CBA can be, contact details of all ITF Inspectors and affiliates can be found, but also discuss their ongoing cases or past experience with ITF Arab World and Iran Network Coordinator, ITF FOC Network Coordinator for Asia Pacific Region, ITF Inspectors from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, Malaysia, South Korea, Philippines, and Ukraine. Some seafarers having queries on particular issues got comments from experts, and others came not only to get deeper knowledge on their rights and instruments to enforce them but to thank the ITF, ITF Support Team, and ITF Inspectors for assistance rendered in settling their claim recently.
The ITF Seafarers' Expo culminated with a festive celebration of the Day of the Seafarer on June 25th. This special day is dedicated to honoring seafarers for their irreplaceable contributions to the maritime industry.
Alongside the diversity, the Expo held special significance as it commemorated the 75th anniversary of the ITF's Flags of Convenience campaign. With ITF inspectors from around the globe in attendance, the Expo served as an important place to educate seafarers about their rights while working on vessels under Flags of Convenience. By empowering seafarers with knowledge about their rights, the ITF endeavors to create a safer and more fair working environment for seafarers worldwide.
At the Expo, seafarers also had the opportunity to explore essential local and international charity organizations assisting them and their families during challenging times. Among them, the presence of the ITF Seafarers' Trust was particularly noteworthy. As a well-established and respected organization, the ITF Seafarers' Trust is committed to supporting seafarers and their families by offering various programs and initiatives that address their well-being needs.
Among other things, Expo allowed a delightful experience for seafarers and their families by organizing various activities such as basketball tournaments, talent quests, and other interactive programs. To engage seafarers at most, the Expo, as always, managed to create an inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants, promoting a sense of camaraderie and support among seafarers and their loved ones. Games for seafarers’ children, giveaways, prizes for winners of tournaments, food, drinks, and ice-cream were offered to enhance the overall enjoyment.
